
TikTok's Virtual Gift Economy: A Case Study from Belarus
TikTok's Virtual Gift Economy: A Glimpse into Online Interactions In a recent TikTok live stream from Belarus, a user named Janny17277 showcased the platform's virtual gifting system. The stream, which lasted approximately 48 seconds, captured the user's interaction with viewers who sent her various virtual gifts. These gifts ranged from simple virtual items to more expensive ones, demonstrating the range of engagement within TikTok's live feature. "It's amazing to see the support from my viewers," Janny17277 said during the stream, expressing her gratitude for the gifts received. The video highlights the economic aspect of TikTok, where virtual gifts translate into real-world revenue for creators, and the social aspect, where viewers express appreciation and engagement through digital means. While the video itself is short, it offers a glimpse into the dynamics of this virtual economy and the relationship between creators and their audience.